Finally allowed to sit for a probationary license, good or bad?

Karl Farmer · Aug 23, 2011

We'd all like to know what state you are in, and what you were arrested for, and the nature of the criminal complaint, including the degree of the charge.

ParkerBC,MSN,RN, PhD, RN · Aug 24, 2011

I would like to know how in the world a BON can charge fines for a crime that was committed in the past AND it totaling to $10,000.00. So, after the amount is paid, you will have a free and clear license? I don't think I would even entertain the offer. In fact, if I were in your position, I would do either two things. First, get an attorney and appeal the decision or apply for licensure in another state that doesn't have such ridiculous sanctions.

ParkerBC,MSN,RN, PhD, RN · Aug 24, 2011

Please ignore my initial post. I misread your comment. In that case, if your fines and restitution equate to $10,000 and the board said you can petition to have the probationary status removed after paying the money, the BON seemed generous. I agree with Karl Farmer...what were the circumstances surrounding your criminal case?

nurse_wannab · Aug 24, 2011

Hi,

I live in PA, I was convicted of a misdemeanor fraud charge and my fines & restitution total 10K. I am making small monthly payments with the court system. I took everyone's advice & hired an attorney, although it wasn't cheap, I feel that he did the best job that he could & represented me in a positive light, despite my conviction which was recent. Yes, the hearing examiner reccommended that I be able to sit for NCLEX & get my license, but my license will be on probation. When I pay off all my fines & restitution, I can then ask that the probation be lifted. I felt that the hearing was fair & I am very grateful that they are even allowing me a license. My lawyer wasn't sure what the outcome would be, as my conviction was earlier this year. My question is, should I just go ahead & get the probationary license? Or should I work as a CNA & try to pay off the fine first so that I won't have to ever get a license on probation? I work with a health system now, that has RN positions available & I was even called by HR asking if I had taken NCLEX yet. I told her that I was waiting for a hearing with the BON & she seemed turned off by my statement. I wonder if I tell her what's going on, if she'll hire me with a probationary license, it will most likely be in a nursing home setting. I have a good record with the company, but I work with another part of the company. I'm eager to take NCLEX & get it over with but not if it will hurt me in the long run. Do agencies hire with a probationary license? Rehab facilities? I've read that dialysis center do...should I just try to talk to HR & be honest about everything? I don't think I'll have any other restrictions, just the probation. HELP????

ParkerBC,MSN,RN, PhD, RN · Aug 30, 2011

At this point, I would discuss it with an administrative lawyer. Maybe someone else can chime in, but there is a list of crimes that preclude a person convicted of certain crimes from working for facilities that receive Medicare and Medicaid reimbursement. I would venture to say a 30 minute consult with an administrative lawyer will do the trick. He/she will know the best way to handle your situation. I did not get "lucky" with my licensure. I hired an attorney and asked a lot of questions. Since we aren't lawyers, we really can't give advice.

I have been in your position; contemplating of what to do. Since your situation and many other situations involving licensure and the BON, an attorney will be your best resource. Good luck to you. Keep us informed of how things are going.

SuesquatchRN, BSN, RN · Aug 31, 2011

I've seen people hired with restricted/probationary licenses. I'd go for it.

nurse_wannab · Sep 6, 2011

SuesquatchRN,

Thank you! I think I will start studying to pass NCLEX and go from there. I know my license will read "on probation" but I'm hoping once i start working & pay all the fines off. It will read "active" and I can go on with my life. I'm just greatful that they are even allowing me to be licensed.